JPEG Signal to Noise Ratio

The 5D Mark III produces the cleanest images of the bunch up to ISO800, at which point it starts to fall short of the Canon 6D and Sony A7. It still manages to produce slightly better results than the Nikon D810 until ISO12800, where the two cameras then even out. It's worth noting that these tests are not always an accurate representation of real-world image quality, so check out the sensitivity and noise images to visually examine noise levels at higher sensitivities.

Raw signal to noise ratio

Analysing the camera's raw output (after conversion to TIFF) we can see that the 5D Mark III scores consistently higher than the D810 at all sensitivities and comes close to the Sony A7's performance. The 6D starts out slightly down on its bigger brother, but regains the lead as sensitivities increase, theoretically producing cleaner images.

JPEG dynamic range

All cameras are capable of very high dynamic range up to ISO3200 with no obvious difference in real world image quality. The 5D Mark III and D810 maintain very close results up to their maximum sensitivities, whilst the 6D and Sony A7 produce high scores up to ISO25600.

Raw dynamic range

Comparing the dynamic range of the camera's raw files (when converted to TIFF) reveals that the 5D Mark III falls slightly short of the competition up to ISO800, where it then claws back ground against the D810. The 6D and A7 are still the cameras to beat though.

Canon is proud to present the highly anticipated EOS 5D Mark III. With supercharged EOS performance and stunning full frame, high-resolution image capture, the EOS 5D Mark III is designed to perform. Special optical technologies like the 61-Point High Density Reticular AF and an extended ISO range of 100-25600 (expandable to 50 (L), 51200 (H1) and 102400 (H2) make the EOS 5D Mark III ideal for shooting weddings in the studio or out in the field, and great for still photography. Advanced professional-level high definition video capabilities (that includes a host of industry-standard recording protocols and enhanced performance) make it possible to capture beautiful cinematic movies in EOS HD quality. A newly designed 22.3 Megapixel full-frame Canon CMOS sensor, Canon DIGIC 5+ Image Processor, and shooting performance up to 6.0 fps provide exceptional clarity and sharpness, even when capturing rapidly-unfolding scenes. Additional technological advancements include an Intelligent Viewfinder, Canon's advanced iFCL metering system, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and Multiple Exposure mode - all of which that help make the EOS 5D Mark III the perfect multimedia tool.